The invention relates to a method for producing, in particular configuring, a system, comprising a contact line and an apparatus, and a to device for performing the method, wherein the apparatus can be supplied by means of the contact line and information can be sent and/or received by the apparatus via the contact line, wherein the contact line comprises at least a first, second, fourth, and fifth contact conductor (SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4, SL5), each of which is connected to a respective connection element (.1,.2,.3,.4,.5) of the apparatus, wherein the first and second contact conductors each have a respective phase of the alternating voltage supplying the apparatus, wherein the fourth contact conductor is provided in order to send information and the fifth contact conductor is provided in order to receive information, wherein one of the phases, in particular the phase acting as a signaling phase, is electrically connected to a first connection element, in particular wherein the first connection element is provided with a corresponding marking or label during the production of the apparatus, wherein a controllable switch, in particular semiconductor switch, of the apparatus electrically connects the first connection element during certain time periods to the connection element connected to the fourth contact conductor or disconnects said connection.